Radio and TV presenter Suzi Mann, from Hitchin, has called her adopted son “the most precious gift” as she urges others to consider adoption.

Journalist and broadcaster Suzi – who adopted her brother’s son Raffio when he was a toddler – is supporting children’s charity Barnardo’s in calling for more people to consider adoption.

Raffio was just 18 months old when he moved in with former BBC Asian Network presenter Suzi in December 2011.

“Christmas time will always be extra special for me,” said Suzi, who went to Hitchin Girls’ School.

“Sunday, December 5, 2011 is when I received the most precious and priceless gift of my life.

“Raffio was just 18 months old when he moved in to live with me, and he truly brought a new beginning and purpose to my life.

“As a single parent, of course, I also had my apprehensions, what-ifs and doubts about my ability to be a good parent.

“But just like Christmas morning, that instant love, goosebumps of joy and immense fulfilment consumed me.

“That’s exactly how I feel every single day with my son.

“I used to think being a kid at Christmas was the best thing ever, but it turns out having kids at Christmas is.”

As of the end of August, there were 1,089 children across the UK waiting to find loving, stable families. Barnardo’s is particularly looking for adopters who can welcome older children, siblings, children with disabilities and youngsters from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Barnardo’s chief executive Javed Khan said: “It’s so important to have happy childhood memories as they help you learn important life lessons, how to treat those around you and how you want your own children to grow up one day.

“Sadly, some children have a very difficult start in life and don’t have many positive memories – but you can change that and help them to build a better future.

“Whether you are a single parent, an LGBT couple, someone with grown-up children or have just always wanted to start a family – we want to hear from you.

“By opening your heart and your home you really could transform a vulnerable child’s life for the better.”